9 Effective Home Remedies for Earaches

Heather Dessinger

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Child in pain with earache or ear infection

This may be an odd way to start a post on home remedies for earaches, but before we get into the nitty gritty of easy homemade ear drops, warm salt socks and other comfort measures, I want to take a moment to discuss one of the most common misconceptions about ear infections.

Is it really an infection? ^

According to Dr. Allan Lieberthal, pediatrician and lead author of the American Academy of Pediatrics new guidelines for diagnosing ear infections, the medical community has contributed to the “over-diagnosis of [ear] infection.” (1)

How does this happen? Dr. Haggerton, a pediatric and family chiropractor, explains:

Many of us have gone through this in the past: We’ve taken our child to the pediatrician because they are obviously in pain, acting funny, or pulling at their ears, and the doc looked in their ears with the otoscope and said, “Yep, it’s red. Little Johnny’s got an ear infection. I’ll write you a script for an antibiotic.

Think about that for a minute. How did the doctor know, just from the color of the tympanic membrane (eardrum), that your child had an infection? He didn’t. The only way to truly diagnose an infection in the ear is by doing a swab of the ear and culturing the area. Then they can see for sure whether or not your child actually has an infection. If they don’t do that, the problem more than likely is fluid buildup behind the eardrum.” (2)

natural-remedies-for-ear-pain

So what causes ear pain? ^

A red and slightly bulging tympanic membrane can be a sign that fluid is not draining well, but it’s not necessarily a sign of ear infection.

Children’s eustachian tubes (ear canals) are not slanted down like those of adults. Their canals are straight across or horizontal, making it hard for your baby to get much help from gravity to move the fluid from the lymph nodes and the ears into the throat and out of their body. The problem comes when fluid and congestion build up in the lymph nodes in the sides of the neck and throat and cannot be moved or flushed out of the child’s body.

That fluid has to go somewhere, so if the fluid can’t go back down, then it will frequently back up into the child’s Eustachian tube, causing fluid pressure on the back of the ear drum. This pressure will cause swelling and irritation—pain—just like an infection, and if left unaddressed long enough can progress into an infection.” (2)

Other than the natural shape of a child’s eustachian tube, misalignments in the head/neck area, teething and/or undiagnosed food sensitivities can cause swelling that prevents drainage. (3) In these cases, the irritation will often have the same symptoms as an infection.

Why The American Academy of Pediatrics Now Recommends The “Wait & See” Approach ^

Even if an infection is present, according to CBS News Medical Correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton most ear infections are viral in nature and won’t respond to antibiotics anyway. (4)

So what will that course of antibiotics really do to help? If the earache has been misdiagnosed – absolutely nothing. Or worse, according to Consumer Reports it may actually cause future ear infections! (5)

The AAP Guidelines now state that antibiotics should not be prescribed unless there is an obvious ear infection – a very bulging tympanic membrane. If fluid is present some parents might insist on a swab culture to confirm it is bacterial rather than viral before considering antibiotics. If they do, chances are the earache will resolve on it’s own before the results come back. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, that may be for the best anyway. Most ear infections – whether truly an infection or not – clear up without any treatment.

According to a Cochrane Review which reviewed earache treatments for several thousand children, researchers found that antibiotics did not decrease pain within the first 24 hours. About 60% of children recovered on their own by this point.

Children who received antibiotics did report a slight improvement in pain on days two and three, but the researchers pointed out that children treated with antibiotics had a higher rate of adverse events such as vomiting, diarrhea and rash. They concluded that the “benefits of antibiotics must be weighed against the possible harms.”

There was no difference in pain between treated and untreated children “three to seven days and 11 to 14 days after assessment,” and researchers found that there was also no difference in the long-term outcomes they examined.

Wait-And-See Guidelines (Plus When To See A Doctor) ^

According to Lieberthal, the “Basic rule of thumb for parents is: Don’t call the doctor for an antibiotic unless the child has a fever over 102 degrees or severe symptoms of cough, runny nose and ear pain.”

Instead, he writes, “a parent can safely wait 48 to 72 hours, giving pain medicine as needed, and watching to see if those symptoms simply go away. If the fever rises or the cough and runny nose last for several days, that’s when the child needs to visit the doctor for a full evaluation.” (1)

The AAP recommends the wait-and-see approach for:

  • Children 6 to 23 months with mild inner ear pain in one ear for less than 48 hours and a temperature less than 102.2 F (39 C)
  • Children 24 months and older with mild inner ear pain in one or both ears for less than 48 hours and a temperature less than102.2 F (39 C) (6)

This approach has worked very well for my family, but I want to emphasize that these are guidelines, not rules. If your gut tells you to take your child in, by all means take them in and use the information your doctor shares with you to make an informed decision.

Recently one of my kids got hurt playing outside, and my gut told me that this time was different than other occasions. Turns out it was a mild collarbone break, and I’m so glad we went in. Even if it hadn’t been broken there are times when an outside opinion is helpful for putting the mind at ease, and I’m totally in favor of getting an opinion if it can help guide decision making.

Also, sometimes it can take a couple of days to get an appointment, so it may make sense to schedule just in case a couple of days go by and things don’t seem to be improving.

9 Home Remedies For Earaches ^

In the meantime, those (including myself) who choose the wait-and-see approach recommended by the AAP opt to support the immune system naturally while focusing on comfort measures.

For individuals that prefer to avoid Tylenol and other over-the-counter pain medications that may delay the healing process, below are nine ideas.

But first, a quick safety note: If the eardrum is perforated, nothing should be put in the ears. This Dr. Mom pocket otoscope was designed by an ER physician to help moms see what is going on when their little ones have an earache. It comes with a link to high resolution photos of normal and abnormal eardrums. The ER doctor also includes instructions on how to properly use the otoscope.

Okay, on to the remedies:

Olive oil infused with garlic and mullein for earaches and ear infections

1. Olive Oil Infused With Garlic and/or Mullein (Herbal Ear Drops)

Warm olive oil, often infused with herbs such as garlic or mullien, has a long history of use as a folk remedy for earaches, and current research seems to support this approach.

In one study, researchers compared two treatment approaches for children with ear pain and clinical findings associated with middle ear infections (acute otitis media):

  • Antibiotics + Ear Drops – This method included treatment with amoxicillin plus ear drops that were infused with garlic (allium sativum), mullein (verbascum thapsus), calendula (calendula flores), Saint John’s wort (hypericum perforatum), lavender, and vitamin E in olive oil.
  • Ear Drops Alone – This approach included the herbal ear drops described above without the antibiotic.

What they found is that “Patients who were given ear drops alone had a better response than patients who were given ear drops together with amoxicillin.” (7)

The American Academy of Pediatrics, while noting that not enough research has been done to make definitive recommendations, also “says it could be moderately effective on ear pain.” (8)

Bonus fact: Garlic contains alliin and allinase. When a whole clove is chopped or crushed these compounds combine to form allicin, a compound with soothing properties that may provide a measure of comfort while garlic does it’s other magic. Garlic also has been shown to inhibit some viruses, which some people feel is helpful given that most earaches are viral in nature. (9)

You can find garlic and mullein oil here or possibly at your local health food store. I also have a garlic and mullien oil recipe that includes instructions for use if you’d rather make it.

Child holding salt sock earache remedy over ear

2. Salt Sock or Warm Compress

Warmth does wonders for getting the lymphatic fluid moving and easing the discomfort of earaches. I tried the salt sock remedy recommended by Lillian Beard, M.D. with one of my littles last year and it was very helpful. Although salt is my preference because it has antimicrobial properties, rice works well, too.

Another option is a warm water bottle held over the aching ear or an onion poultice. (More on how to make an onion poultice below.)

3. Massage With or Without Essential Oils

Massaging the outside of the ear and face/jaw/neck area with a carrier oil and – if you have them on hand – a few drops of essential oil is thought to encourage good circulation and facilitate normal drainage.

Oils often recommended for this purpose are tea tree, eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender, oregano, chamomile, peppermint and thyme. Please keep in mind that some oils should not be introduced until child reaches a certain age. I’ve created a guide to diluting essential oils and a list of child-friendly essential oils, but for this specific purpose here are some recommendations based on the oils mentioned above:

Oils considered safe for children ages 3 months – 6 years:

Dilution recommendations:

For children ages 3 months – 2 years, the recommended dilution ratio is .25% (1 drop per 4 teaspoons carrier oil)

For children ages 2 years – 6 years, the recommended dilution ratio is 1% (1 drop per teaspoon of carrier oil)

Essential oils that are considered safe for children 6-10:

Dilution recommendations: For children ages 6-15, the recommended dilution ratio is 1.5% (9 drops in 2 tablespoons of carrier oil)

Special cases: Eucalyptus & Peppermint

Both of these oils are generally not recommended for use with young children due to their high concentration of 1.8 cineole, which can sometimes acts negatively on the temperature receptors of children’s lungs and cause slowed breathing. However, there are exceptions to this guideline, which you can read about here.

4. Cod Liver Oil

According to Dr. Michael Gerber, “Vitamin A deficiency disrupts the clearing mechanism of the ear.” (10) He makes a distinction between betacarotene and true Vitamin A, which is only found in animal products such as cod liver oil. (Click here for my guide to using cod liver oil with kids.)

5. Chiropractic Care

According to researchers who examined the role of chiropractic in treating and preventing earaches, “results indicate that there is a strong correlation between the chiropractic adjustment and the resolution of otitis media for the children in this study.” (11)

That’s likely because, as mentioned above, the lymph system needs to work well in order to prevent the buildup of fluid in the ear. When misalignment occurs it can restrict flow, however they can be restored to optimal function with appropriate chiropractic care.

Pot of elderberry tea

6. Elderberry Syrup & Tea

According to Penn State Medical Center, elderberry may have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Among the various natural remedies for ear infections, it is a favorite with those who want to support the immune system naturally.

Click here for my elderberry syrup recipe and video tutorial, or buy it here. Another way to use this revered herb is to make elderberry tea.

7. Colloidal Silver

Recommendations seem to hover around one to three drops – warmed before use – inserted twice a day. Emily Bartlett, LAc has a great article on why it is safe but should be used sparingly.

8. Onion Poultice

The warmth of a fresh onion poultice is said to provide comfort and assist with circulation. Onion is also believed to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may be helpful depending on the reason for the discomfort.

To make an onion poultice:

  • Chop an onion (any color) in half
  • Place it face down in a pan along with a tablespoon of water
  • Cook on medium heat until the water has evaporated
  • Wrap the onion half in a cotton towel and wait until it has cooled enough to be placed comfortably against the ear
  • Place the towel-wrapped onion against the ear and let it sit for 10 minutes or so, or until it cools. Repeat the process with the same onion 1-2 more times if desired.

Another option is to squeeze out some of the onion juice after you remove it from the stovetop and after it has cooled – put a few drops into the ear.

9. Hydrogen Peroxide

Many moms swear by this method, which is helpful for both removing earwax buildup and creating an inhospitable environment for unwanted microbes. Here’s what to do:

  • Mix up a 1:1 solution of purified water and hydrogen peroxide (that’s equal parts of each)
  • Lie down on one side with the achy ear facing up. If you’re administering drops to a child, have them lay on one side either on your lap or against a pillow.
  • Use a dropper to place a few drops of the solution in the ear canal. It may bubble up and tickle a bit – that’s okay.
  • Stay still for five minutes or so. If needed, distract a child with a movie or reading a book.
  • After the five minutes is up, roll over (or allow the child to roll over) and let the peroxide solution pour into a towel.

Other Common Causes of Ear Pain ^

Ear pain can also be caused by:

  • Injury
  • Fluid trapped in the ear, which is sometimes called swimmers ear

Prevention Strategies

The majority of our immune system is found in the digestive tract, so supporting it with beneficial bacteria is recommended by many practitioners. If ear inflammation is due to food sensitivities, it may also be beneficial in helping to moderate and even reverse those sensitivities over time using protocols such as the GAPS Diet.

In this study, researchers found that giving children a probiotic with a strain called Streptococcus salivarius K12 was associated with fewer and less severe ear infections. This is the same strain used in the probiotic I give my kids for oral health.

Regular chiropractic care may also be helpful for improving drainage in the ear canal.

Products mentioned in this post: ^

Have you tried any natural remedies for ear infections? How did they work for you?

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Article sources:

1. Tribble, Sarah Jane (2013) Ear infection? New guidelines say don’t rush to the doctor. Retrieved from https://www.cleveland.com/healthfit/2013/04/ear_infection_new_guidelines_s.html
2. Haggerton, JB (2015) Pathways To Family Wellness Magazine. Issue #45
3. Net Wellness Non-Profit Healthcare. Serious Otitis Media. Retrieved from http://www.netwellness.org/healthtopics/ent/otitis.cfm
4. CBS News (2010) Study: Leave Ear Infections Alone. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/study-leave-ear-infections-alone/
5. Consumer Reports (2009) Antibiotics For An Ear Infection Lead To . . . More Ear Infections. Retrieved from https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2009/07/antibiotics-for-an-ear-infection-lead-to-more-ear-infections/index.htm
6. Mayo Clinic. Ear Infection (Middle Ear). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ear-infections/symptoms-causes/syc-20351616
7. Sarrell, EM et. al. (2003) Naturopathic Treatment For Ear Pain In Children. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12728112
8. WebMD. How Can You Use Olive Oil For An Ear Infection? Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ear-infection/qa/how-can-you-use-olive-oil-for-an-ear-infection
9. Ankri, S and Mirelman, D. (1999) Antimicrobial Properties of Allicin From Garlic. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10594976
10. Gerber Medical Clinic (2011) The Power of Vitamin A. Retrieved from https://www.hbmag.com/the-power-of-vitamin-a/
11. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics. The Role of the Chiropractic Adjustment in the Care and Treatment of 332 Children with Otitis Media. Retrieved from https://chiro.org/pediatrics/ABSTRACTS/Children_with_Otitis.shtml

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About HEATHER

Heather is a holistic health educator, herbalist, DIYer, Lyme and mold warrior. Since founding Mommypotamus.com in 2009, Heather has been taking complicated health research and making it easy to understand. She shares tested natural recipes and herbal remedies with millions of naturally minded mamas around the world. 

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216 thoughts on “9 Effective Home Remedies for Earaches”

  1. Great article! When one of our kids was 1yr we took her to the dr with a fever one afternoon. We were told she had “very bad double-ear infections”. Without treating her, the NEXT MORNING we took her to a more holistic dr and when he checked her out he said, “Your daughter does NOT have any sign of ear infection”. That’s when we realized how over-diagnosed ear infections were! Our 5 kids are ages 6-15yrs old and with any ear irritation we have always used warm garlic oil or warm onion oil, colloidal silver, peroxide and lavender oil on the outside with great success!

    Reply
    • How much colloidal silver? I read one post that says to do 5-7 drops for 7 minutes In the ear… we did the 5 drops then I looked at another post and it states 2-3 drops… the drops were in for under 2 minutes but now I’m worried I put too much in for his age

      Reply
  2. I’ve used the warm onion countless times to abate an ear infection. When I didn’t have an onion I’ve crushed a garlic clove and gently plugged the ear with it. Not once have any of my 4 children had to have an antibiotic for and ear infection! My oldest is almost 9 and she is not surprised at all when I see a red ear and stuff a garlic in it! We also try to keep a lot of garlic in our diet and have taken out refined foods and sugars to help our bodies keep healthy strong immune systems to fight off infection!

    Reply
    • I’m trying the garlic in the ear because I’ve been trying to find something my ear can get better with. It is pretty soothing in an odd way and i kind of doubted if it would work. Thanks for clearing up for me if I was supposed to have a garlic oil or if I could use and actual garlic clove, that’s one thing I wasn’t sure about in the article. Thanks. ^.^

      Reply
  3. Great article, it’s what we do as well. I love the ear oil. My kids have only had one mild earache each, and it was resolved in 1-2 hours with ear oil and gentle massage.

    Reply
  4. Breastmilk, too 🙂 I have used garlic mullein on my daughter (when I had no BM available) and it works wonders. I would also add that any oil put in the ears should be warm (I stick the bottle in my bra to warm it to my body temperature). Cold drops can cause vertigo, which is not something to add on top of ear discomfort.

    Reply
      • Breast milk naturally has antiviral and antibacterial properties. We used it for the kids and our own eye infection and link eye episode we had last year to great effect! You can also put it in the ear for infections, as well as on burns and small cuts to sooth and help with healing.

        It also has antibodies so helps fight infections when ingested and not just for the baby.

        Fun facts: Sometimes pumping and drinking it yourself can help kick start your immune system, and its been proven that people are naturally inclined to like the taste of it due to its sweet flavor. You can make butter with it by shaking it for a long period of time too and use it in place of milk and butter for cooking and baking…

        Reply
  5. I had my fist ear ache while on GAPS intro last winter. WOW pain. I had a millions errands to run and did not want to smell so I warmed some silver 500ppm in my bra 2 drops in the ear. within the hour the horrible pain was gone. I then took raw garlic and upped my FCLO.

    Reply
  6. I am an Audiologist who sees kids all the time for hearing tests due to “infections”. Rarely are the ears actually infected, like mentioned above there is usually just fluid behind the tympanic membranes (eardrums). It is often really difficult to get a good look at the eardrum of a moving/wiggling/crying child. I feel like a lot of the docs just think that antibiotics aren’t going to hurt the patient, so why not prescribe them. We (audiologist’s) actually do a pressure test on the eardrums called Tympanometry to check for fluid behind the ears. This is a digital reading of the amount of movement of the eardrum. If there is fluid, no movement will occur, if no fluid the movement looks like a mountain. I advocate chiropractic and essential oils with my patients since there is usually no need for antibiotics. Good points in the article.

    Reply
    • Hi , my daughter has had an ear infection for nearly 2 yrs, bacterial meningitis 3 x and suffered a stroke, grommets inserted 4 x,
      She still has leaking ears and the smell is horiffic, she was put on antibiotics for 8 mths then after 3 E.N.T doctors and 4 gps finally a doctor took a swab and found the antibiotic we,d used was resistant to the bug she has, nw been on bactrim 23days 9 to go and a repeat but i can tell it isnt working, ruby will be 2 on the 9 th february, she and we seriously need help as we just keep getting palmed off to the next person , please help us..i see u recommend chiropractor ??

      Reply
      • Hey Joanna, did you get any help? It doesn’t look like anyone has responded to you. add me on Facebook @ Facebook.com/shawn.skj if you want to chat. Not sure if I have anything to tell you, but I’d like to hear your story.

        Reply
      • Lay off the antibiotics, u r KILLING your baby. She’ll have health repercussions in the future. Try the diluted essential oils, or hydrogen peroxide drops several times per day. Crush garlic & gently stuff ears, wrapping head to keep garlic in place. If she fusses, do it when she’s going down to sleep. Antibiotics will KILL her immune system.

        Reply
        • So true my son Was given antibiotics 3 times his first year of life. Being a first time mom I didn’t want to make any mistakes. He got a cold and I took him in to the docs. They prescribed him antibiotics. He got better for about a month and then he got sick again and again. This happened at least 9 times in 2 1/2 years. Then I found out the reality behind antibiotics. Now he is 8 and is always getting sick. He can’t fight off infection because antibiotics ruined his immune system. Who knew the biggest mistake I could make is trusting the pediatrician.

          Reply
          • Hi there – I know this is an old post, but I did the same with one of my 3 children because he suffered so much with his ears and they overprescribed antibiotics his first 10 years of life. He is the first one to get sick in our family, strep, stomach flu. Last year, I decided to try the protocol that laid out here (link below) and it was AMAZING what a difference it made in his immune system. That year, he was the LAST one sick, if he got it at all. I love this protocol and even though the damage from antibiotics isn’t completely reversible, it can sure be boosted, even years later. I also LOVE that she mentions about the S. Boulardi to take during the antibiotics. Because as much as we resist, a very small amount of the time, they are necessary. (strep in kids, occasionally pneumonia (although mostly viral), etc. Here is the link:
            http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/protocol-for-gut-support-during-and-after-a-round-of-antibiotics/

      • Why are u telling moms to put silver inside their children’s ears?? Silver is NOT a metal we have in our bodies and will only harm user.

        Reply
        • Joanna, if you haven’t resolved the problem yet, please email me! I just went thru this with my almost 2 yr old and have a miracle to tell you about!

          Reply
      • Could be a fungal infection. My son had a lot of white stuff in his ear and I could see it with the naked eye. # trips to the pediatrician and them looking and saying it was an ear infection and 3 antibiotics later I went to the ENT. He did a culture, ear drum test, and a few days later was told it was a fungal infection. Two weeks later it cleared up. It had gotten so bad he had blood coming out of his ear. Good luck. We have been dealing with ear infections since he was 6 months old and he is almost 7. We have done both natural medicine and western medicine.

        Reply
      • Joanna – my son is now six and has suffered with ear infections and countless antibiotic treatments and surgeries that have left him with hearing loss and other complications. Just one thing that we have found that no one mentioned for the longest time was to be absolutely diligent about keeping water out of his ears. even the teeniest drop could seem to cause terrible pain and ultimately another infection with high fever within hours. I really wish that I had sought more natural remedies earlier for my son. After working in a hospital, I had a Dr tell me that after ruling out everything else, look in the ear say its red and prescribe antibiotics, cause that’s what most parents want anyway. No wonder we have so many super strains of viruses today.

        Reply
      • The minute my oldest entered 4K, she began suffering from “ear infections” and upper respiratory infections. The doc continually prescribed antibiotics, only making things worse. I never realized there was a world of natural cures, as I was a sickly child and took countless rounds of antibiotics. Long story short I swear by warm garlic oil in the ears and at the onset of any illness, place halved onions around our house especially on our nightstands, by our heads. The BEST thing I did for my family was discovering milk kefir and culture my own. The MEGA amounts of probiotics have turned our lives around. I had to heal my muchkin in her gut first, thanks to all the antibiotics! I have been culturing milk kefir for 2 years now and am proud to say that last winter no one in my family became ill!! No one!! For the first time since 2010, my daughter and I didn’t have bronchitis or pneumonia and not antibiotics have entered my home for 2 years either!

        Reply
        • Can you give me more info on what all you have done? Please. I have a son who repeatedly gets Pneumonia, he is 5, but he has been getting it since he was 2. The dr. tells me it’s because I didn’t immunize him for it, but I do not want him to have the immunization, but I am scared for him, because he keeps ending up with pneumonia. I also have a 2 year old who has chronic “ear infections” Do you have any particular advice to help me get started?

          Reply
      • Hi Joanna, I have been suffering ear aches for 57 yrs. I have had 6 operations on my nose and I was hoping the pain would stop, but it didn’t. I just had my 3rd set of tubes put in my ears and I am still in a lot of pain and swelling behind the ear. I have found over the yrs that the hair dryer and the shower is the only things that works for me. Today I have tired Garlic, ginger juice, peroxide, olive oil, essential oils around the ears area, natural ear oil, antibiotic drops and no relief so far. So I had to use the hair dyer to stop the pain. 🙁 But I am not giving up yet. I am determine I am going to find relief from these ear aches. 🙂

        Reply
      • I am an Indian and my grandma and mom has been using. Homemade garlic oil to treat and prevent ear infection. Just boil any oil (olive or seasemseed)with small garlic pieces renove garlic pieces from the oil. Warm the oil and put few drops in both eras. Cover it with cotton balls.

        Reply
    • I have plugged up ears and very little pain. What are uour suggestions for this type of ear problem. I’m about to go to the Dr but I do not just want to take antibiotics if not necessary.

      Reply
      • I know this is a very old thread, but for anyone reading, blocked ears without pain can be a fungal infection. I had one a while back, and those were my symptoms. I would try garlic oil since garlic kills yeast and fungus.

        Reply
    • my oldest boy has had so many problems with ear aches and every time i have taken him to the dr they ALWAYS give him antibiotics. AND i mean every time… he has got to the point that when he takes them he actually gets sick again before he gets off of them.. This is a very frustrating thing.. For the last year I have stared to do home remedies tryin to make it better on my children.. I have been giving them honey on a pretty regular basis and since i have done that things have got so much better on my children.. For instance.. since I have started giving them honey they do not half to take allergy medication anymore… but that is for them.. and a good bit of the ear aches have went away since I have started to do this.. I seen this artical and im goin to try some of these remedies and see if i can completely get rid of his ear aches when he has them..

      Reply
  7. This last March my 3 year old had her third ear ache in six months. I decided that apparently what traditional medicine was doing wasn’t working and I refused to go down that road again. So, instead I put a drop of colloidal silver in her ear and rubbed Lemon EO and Purification EO on the outer rim of her ear and I have not heard a peep since about an ear ache. It took less than 12 hours for it to go away.

    Reply
  8. When I was 5 yrs old with a screaming earache, and old American Indian said to boil an onion, put the heart of the onion in my ear with my hand over it and lay down on that side. Instantly, the pain was gone like air out of a balloon. I used that for 7 children and it worked every time. If there is water in the ear from swimming, it will dribble out within 15-20 min. If it is an allergy earache, it will not work. (An allergy earache feels like a knife in the ear and it hurts when you move your head like you’re touching a knife in there.) You want the heart of the onion very warm but be sure not so hot it burns.

    Reply
      • A friend of mine gave me a recipe he called, swimmers ear juice. It worked quicker then what the doctor gave me. I haven’t had an ear infection since. When I feel my ear getting clogged I use equal parts of hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar and alcohol. It fizzes and tickles and opens up the blocks.

        Reply
    • My grandson was sobbing with an ear ache last night. We used to essential oils around his ear but he was still hurting. We tried the onion heart as directed above and within minutes he drifted sound asleep! He is still sleeping peacefully after several hours. Thank you for sharing this.

      Reply
    • What do you mean by the “onion heart in ear”? Is that the little center piece of the onion inside the ear? Or is it the onion cut in half and putting the center of the onion over the ear and holding it there? Thank you for your help.

      Reply
  9. I love your site and your posts, but I would like to add something to your plethora of information. Did you know that Honey contains a natural anti-biotic called “Inhibine”. So putting a tsp of honey in your childrens or your, tea, 3 times a day, when sick, will not only help heal a throat, but make your ears feel better. I have also been using a mixture of Apple-Cider Vinegar and Lavender essential oil in an old Ear Drop bottle, as I am prone to ear infections and it helps to keep any infection or discomfort at bay. (mix 5ml Apple Cider Vinegar with 5 drops Lavender Essential oil). Or you can dilute the Apple Cider vinegar with a little water (2ml Apple Cider and 3ml Distilled Water) but then you have the problem of the mixture going off quicker because of the water. If you use water, then keep it in the fridge. for 2 weeks to be safe. (Shake well before use).

    Reply
    • Thanks for bringing up honey! I was surprised no one mentioned it before! I used to use regular raw organic honey (just anything I could find) and it worked GREAT. Now I use raw organic manuka honey and it kicks just about any sickness/illness in the butt! I used it to heal and stop cystic acne as well as for ear infections, strep throat, colds etc (we rarely get sick, but it’s good to have on hand!).

      Reply
      • So this type of honey will work for anything pretty much? Where can I find it? I have a daughter who gets strep a lot and three sons who have allergies pretty badly. Can this help with that?

        Reply
        • i dont know about the strep and honey but i know store bought honey works for allergies.. give them t tsp a day and if they seem to be havin allergies give it to them twice.. my kids were on allergy meds everyday till they started gettin that.. now i do not have to give them any allergy meds.. i hope it works as well for u 🙂

          Reply
      • Where did you find manuka honey? I would like to give some to my son who is suffering from endless ear infections.

        Reply
      • My guess is that would be pasteurized honey, not raw honey. Raw honey has many wonderful healing benefits along with being anti viral and anti fungal.

        Reply
        • A good thought Lori, but the reason to avoid honey in infants is that honey naturally has botulism spores that could grow in an infants system. Their immune system is less able to handle challenges, and botulism is NOT something you want your kid to have. Even heat treating (pasteurizing) doesn’t kill the spores. Both raw and pasteurized risk having spores. Wait until 1 year.

          Reply
        • I have treated a 7-month-old infant with botulism poisoning due to raw honey. She was very, very ill, but did recover after over one month in PICU. So, although it is extremely rare, it is not advisable to give infants any type of honey.

          Reply
  10. Great article! I’ve used homemade garlic-mullein oil and the heated onions before. Both worked great. The girls like the onion remedy best, because the heat feels so good to sensitive ears. I like the oil better because it’s easier and seems to work faster.

    One great thing for infants is breast milk! It’s naturally antibacterial, totally safe, and free! When my babies are still breastfeeding, I use drops of warm breast milk for both suspected eye infections and possible ear infections in babies and young toddlers. It definitely works, and I’ve never had to take any babies or toddlers to the doctor for an infection. The older ones get a little grossed out by the breast milk so we go with other remedies.

    Reply
    • I just put some breast milk in my hubby’s ear. He’s in so much pain it’s 5am and I’m looking for additional ideas beside the bm that’s how I found this 🙂 so after I get some sleep I will do the onion and oil/garlic for him. Hopefully he’ll be better soon since we have 4 kids 2 of which are babies! He’s my life support I need him back to 100%

      Reply
  11. I’ve always just warmed olive oil and dropped it into the ear and massaged. And encouraged the blowing of a runny nose. Good to have some other ideas if it doesn’t go away that easily!

    Reply
  12. Oh so timely! My six month old is teething and pulling on her ears particularly when feeding. I didn’t want to go to a doctor and be given antibiotics but I didn’t want to be doing her damage by not consulting someone… First baby and all… Phew! I can relax now! Might be time for a chiropractor check up. 🙂

    Reply
    • It is very common for a teething child to rub his ears. Tooth pain in any part of the jaw can seem to be ear pain. Worry first about your child’s teething… Which, btw, can also manifest itself in a low-grade fever. 🙂 No need to run to the doctor just yet. Good luck!!

      Reply
  13. When I was a child growing up we always were given warmed olive oil in the ear along with aspirin (I grew up in a time when aspirin was all there was). For more than 30 years I’ve been using 1 ounce of olive oil mixed with 15 drops each of Ti Tree, Eucalyptus, and Lavender essential oils. These get dropped in the offendin ear and a cotton ball put in place.
    Twelve years ago about 6pm on a Sunday (no doctors open!), my then 9 year old daughter began to dance around crying with pain in her left ear. I gave her aspirin for pain, and began to slice up a couple of onions to make an onion poultice. I cooked the onions in a small amount of olive oil (traditionally moms used goose grease, but I’ve never had this), and let them cook till clear and beginning to brown, about 8 minutes. Placed them immediately on paper towels to drain some of the oil, then into an old, thin dish cloth we use for poultices.
    She was told to lay on the couch with the aching ear up, then I applied the poultice to the outside of her ear and along her jawline (she said it hurt there, too), put on a cartoon and told her to lay still for an hour.
    By the time the onions were more than cold, the aspirin had kicked in and she was pain-free. I then placed some of my special olive oil with the essential oils into her ear and she spent the rest of the evening playing with her siblings. About 9:30pm I gave her more aspirin (to make sure the pain did not come back when the first dose wore off), and placed more oil in her ear. This time I did not have her keep cotton in her ear.
    Told my husband I’d probably be up half the night with her, but she never woke up and I got a full night’s sleep. The next morning she came down and asked me what was all over her face and hair. The infection had pulled out of her ear and was all over her face and in her hair like dried, crusty yellowish snot. I had her take a shower to clean it up.
    That was 12 years ago and she has never had another earache since and is now 21 years old.
    We have used the onion poultice and ear drops for many grandkids’ ears (I have 13 grandkids) and it clears them up in no time flat. No one has ever had any problems from me using these essential oils in their ears with the olive oil

    Reply
    • Make sure you don’t put the onion poultice on too hot as the grease in the onions can give 2nd and 3rd degree burns! You want it as hot as one can stand without scalding the skin. We use onion poultices for all lung ailments, too.

      Reply
  14. This is an interesting article. My daughter has had two earaches in the last couple of months, but I knew they weren’t infections because she had no fever. Both times I tried the garlic mullein oil and a warm pillow but she was still in a lot of pain. Both times I ended up resorting to children’s ibuprofen after hours of pain and no sleep, as much as I hate to do that. Luckily, both times she was better in the morning.

    Reply
  15. Great article! Daughter never had a single ear infection! Little guy however did have his first ear infection not too long ago and he did get a fever up to about 104 and screamed every time we laid him down for a nap/changed his diaper so after almost two days we did take him to a pediatrician. Now I know the signs of an ear infection and will try these remedies to fight it before it gets worse!

    Thanks for the wonderful article 🙂

    Reply
  16. Love this post Heather. Earaches can be so common for little ones and thankfully it’s one of those things that we can easily treat at home if we take the time to learn about them and how to do it. You’ve done a great job explaining what’s going on with an ear infection here.

    My favorite way to treat ear infections in our home is to use the garlic mullien oil, but instead of paying the price to buy it premade, I make it myself. I think it works better because it’s fresher. Plus… it’s so simple.

    All you have to do is crush a clove of garlic, put it in a sauce pan, add in 1 TBSP of dried mullien leaf, and cover it with olive oil. Let it simmer over low heat for an hour or so. Strain the herbs out. Bottle your oil and use as needed. It’s so easy, that if I think my kids are coming down with a would-be ear infection…. I’ll make this fresh every time!

    Reply
    • Hi could you tell me if garlic and olive oil only, can work?do you live it in the ear, do you use a cotton swab after?how many drop and how many time a day? Thank you.

      Reply
  17. Breast milk is also something a lot of people don’t think of….it has many beneficial properties…from probiotics to antibacterial properties….if you’re still feeding your baby breast milk just drop a few drops in their ear. Sounds weird, but it really works!

    Reply
    • I also use breast milk for ear infections and have also used it successfully for eye infections (including pink eye) in my babies, myself…and a couple others brave enough to try it! 🙂

      Reply
  18. Wow what an awesome post! Our one year old grandson has been dealing with this for several weeks now, I am going to share your post with our daughter-in-law.

    Reply
  19. I was using a holistic pediatrician (MD and trained in holistic medicine) who prescribed my daughter a garlic/blend ear drops for an ear infection. When it still seemed to be bothering her I took her back (to another doc I didn’t know) and he said she looked fine, but I could tell he wasn’t able to get a good look in her ears. After a few more days I took her back again to the original doc who I know well, and she said her ear drum had burst and that I needed to stop using the drops immediately. I felt so bad that I had been forcing her to have the ear drops put in when the eardrum had burst and I shouldn’t have been doing them! So the moral for me was to make sure I am comfortable with the doctor and make sure they are able to really see into the ear. Also to really stay on top of it and bring them back in sooner rather than later if it doesn’t seem to be getting better.

    Reply
  20. i do hot compresses 😀 just place a washcloth soaked in hot water over the ear. Repeat as often as needed 😉

    Reply
  21. I have personally used basil oil in my daughters ears with fantastic results. I use the garlic mullein first, and then finish it off with 1-2 drops of basil oil. Earache/redness gone!

    I’ve used it on myself too. The basil smell is really strong…almost smells like fresh cut alfalfa to me…

    But it works!

    Reply
  22. We have a lot of ear infections around here, and both my kiddos have tubes in spite of trying many of these natural methods. But the point is that we tried these first! And we have a great ENT doctor that doesn’t overprescribe antibiotics, so we haven’t had to deal with that too often, especially now that my boys have tubes to help drain.

    What a great post!

    Reply
  23. And let’s not forget the best cure of them all…prevention. Children can usually cure ear infections by not consuming dairy products and dairy by-products like casein.

    Reply
    • I do not eat dairy or cook food as I am a raw vegan and I still have throbbing pain, ringing, burning, swelling, etc in my ears and I don’t sleep all night with the pain. 🙁 This is my 3rd set of tubes in my ears and I drink lots of fluids and many cups of hot turmeric tea. So diet is not my problem here. I think I was born with small drainage tubes in my ears. Who knows why we have ear aches. I have lived with ear aches for 57 yrs of non stop pain and spent thousands and thousands of dollars trying to get some relief. And as of yet I still live in pain!! 🙁

      Reply
  24. In the 1980’s we started going to a chiropractor and he told us to warm a clove of garlic in a pan. When quite warm remove it and peel it, then insert into the ear ( making sure its not too hot) and leave it there for at least 30 min. I always thought of it like a tiny hot water bottle for your ear, but the anti microbial properties did the trick. My kids loved it and we still use it if we get an earache.

    Reply
  25. So happy to have come across your site through a link on a friend’s FB page! Officially a big fan!! (And have been DROOLING over Vitamixes for a long time but simply don’t have the cash to fork out for one. Would be a dream to win! Thanks! 🙂

    Reply
  26. My son started having ear infections when he was around 1. After a year of round after round of antibiotics, I mentioned it to my chiropractor. He adjusted his neck and spine and also performed an ‘ear tug’. He said that would help to straighten out the tubes so the fluid could drain properly. My son never had another ear infection after that. When my second son was born, I took him for regular chiropractic treatments including an ear tug and he had only 1 ear infection in his life. My boys are now 28 and 25 and our chiropractor is the first person we see when we need medical attention!

    Reply
  27. This is great info. I also make sure to use a homeopathic nasal spray to encourage draining and reduce mucous production . Also push fluids and let kids who are old enough chew gum.

    Reply
  28. Using therapeutic grade essential oils is amazing. Lavender on the outside of the ear and peppermint behind the ear and down the neck. Gently tug back, up, down on the ear. It brings relief.

    Reply
  29. How long should I keep on putting the garlic oil in the ear and under the feet after she no longer is giving signs of disconfort?

    Reply
    • Personally, I would stop if my little one was showing signs of discomfort and continue to support her immune system in other ways.

      Reply
  30. My children never had an ear infection. It wasn’t until my son at the age of 7 was screaming and crying and grabbing his ear but no fever. Gave him something for the pain and he went to bed. 2:30 in the morning my son is in so much pain. We were out of out of town so we went to the emergency room. The PA said he had an infection and gave antibiotics. He wasn’t allowed to go swimming and 5 days later we were back at the same emergency room. They just said he still had the infection and continue giving him the medicine. I was so angry and not educated. We left for home the next day and saw his pediatrician. At this point she couldn’t even see into his ear, it was so swollen and painful. She was able to get a swab taken (there were a lot of tears). We started steroids in his ear and oral and in a few hours he didn’t have anymore pain. My pediatrician is awesome and called me at home, letting me know he had 2 different nasty bacteria causing his infection. Now a year later my son has begun to complain today about his ear hurting. He has been swimming so much. So thankful that I found this site and all of the great advice. Hope to use some of the advice tonight.

    Reply
  31. I would love to try several of these remedies but most require it to be put in the ear, and my son has ear tubes, which means I can’t right? He got a cold a couple weeks ago, and then an ear infection, which proceeded to drain our puss, and blood, and other clear liquids, for the last 7 days! It just won’t stop. What would be a suggestion for my case? I have been trying a drop or two of oregano oil in a bottle with some juice and water.

    Reply
    • I have had success using oil of oregano as a treatment for ear ache. I used olive oil as a carrier and rubbed on the bottom of the feet then covered with socks. Good luck!

      Reply
  32. my adult friend from France got an ear infection while visiting this summer. We were on a camping road trip when this happened. We ended up trying several natural food store remedies picked up in a small town co-op. None worked. We wondered if it was a wax build up. So we bought some hydrogen peroxide and she dropped several drops into an ear and laid down for awhile on her side. Then carefully drained the ear and gently used an ear swab to collect. It did seem to be part of the issue. But the ear ache continued and seemed to be getting worse. We then decided to try garlic. I had brought along a small bottle of high quality organic olive oil I bulk order to use for salads and such. So I minced a couple cloves of garlic and mashed this together in a measuring cup with the olive oil. Then I patiently poured and mashed all of the olive oil and garlic into a (boiled and cooled) dropper bottle I had picked up at the natural food co-op along with the garlic. She used this crude garlic oil 2 x per day laying on her side to rest, meditate for a half hour or so and within 3 days the pain subsided and went away. We had visited the small town’s medical clinic but the price of a visit for someone without insurance and not from the US was 3x the price for a US resident! Crazy. Well maybe not, since it brought about a solution and a lesson in natural herbal care for my friend. And a story to take back with her to France.

    Reply
  33. Oil of oregano! I have used capsules to cure mastitis in myself and cut them open to put the oil in my 5 month olds ear. Works wonders!

    Reply
  34. I have used breast milk or coconut oil (the real stuff)…currently, using chiropractic care and removal of dairy for one of my daughters. It’s working!!!!

    Reply
  35. You cannot “swab” an ear for bacteria unless there is fluid in the ear canal. Fluid cannot escape the tympanic membrane unless the TM has ruptured or in the presence of “ear tubes.” A parent cannot always know if the TM has ruptured, but pus or any fluid coming from the ear canal is a really bad sign. If there is a hole in the eardrum, one should never put any substance in the ear unless advised to do so by an OTOLARYNGOLOGIST (an ear, nose, throat doctor.) Please, please see an otolaryngologist if your child has a suspected ear infection/bulging eardrums. A pediatrician does not have the microscope to see the eardrums like an ENT. Your child’s hearing is too valuable. Please see a specialist, especially for small children.

    Reply
  36. I use coloidial silver. Fill the ear canal with head tilted to side. Make sure it goes all the way in. Rub the area below the ear in downward strokes. Never needed to put it in there more than once or twice. Works like magic! ;o)

    Reply
  37. Growing up, the kids I babysat, and my own kids; I used baby oil and it has results fast. The next morning, its like nothing ever happened. However, if it is still painful the next morning, that is when I know its time to see a doctor. I usually put a little baby oil in the ear and then put a cotton ball in.

    Reply
  38. I try to avoid going to the doctor as much as I can. When my 5 year old had a double ear infection, we both decided not to see the doctor on this one. We used tea tree oil massage don’t he back of her ear and just slightly in there ear. I diluted it a little with some olive oil just for her sensitive skin. My daughter refuses any medicines that you try to give her, and is one tough cookie for it. Her ear infection lasted for two days in one ear, and then three days in the next ear. We cut out her dairy and most sugar and I gave her frozen fruits like pineapple and blueberries to include in her diet. She did great!

    As it turned out she had a close friend that was going through the same thing with the double ear infection. She took anti biotics and was feeling better in about the same amount of time as my child was.

    Reply
  39. This is a very interesting article. And has answered alot of my questions about ear infections. About a year ago i got my first ear infection since childhood, and have had many ear infections since. The pain would be unbarable and so i would go to the doc n she would say it was an ear infection, whether it was inner or outer and then give me the same medications to treat it. which made no sense to me because it didnt work before. I stilll get the ear pain, and severar pressure in my ears but i just put up with it now because the doctors were no help. anyways i just wanted to say thank you for this article i will be trying a few of these things to see if they help.

    Reply
  40. My 12 mo just took the dropper out of my hands and tried to give himself a second does of eo blend in his ears…he fought the first treatment.

    Reply
  41. Please help! My daughter has had five ear infections, four with fevers over 103. Twice puss and fluid outside the ear doctor says her right ear drum ruptured. The antibiotics clearly aren’t working. She will be going to chiro this week and I will do probiotics. We have referral to Ent i am scared to out anything in her ear she is still pulling at it and I am so over giving her antibiotics.

    Reply
    • My thinking is that putting an essential oil blend in her ears will be safe, but the massage from the back of the ear down the neck would be helpful and safe. Eucalyptus would be a great first oil for this purpose if you don’t want to spend a fortune. For a carrier oil I like to use coconut for massage as it is creamy at room temp and easier to apply but olive oil would work too. If her temperature keeps spiking I would not shy away from ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen, high fevers are scary!!! Hope you are able to find answers for your little one with the first visit.

      Reply
  42. A quick funny. I wrapped my head up with the onion (my eldest helped, she said i looked like a mummy) and my baby started crawling on me, vocalizing concern. My 3 year old stood next to me, “Mama! Where are you? I tan’t see you!” The wrap lasted a few minutes before their concern coaxed it off.

    Reply
  43. okay, i am feeling a bit apprehensive and negligent, despite my best crunchy mommy intentions and (what i thought was) thorough research. i applied a homemade “vapor rub” to my 15-month-old that i had made for my husband a while back, thinking that it would be a gentler and safer alternative to store brands. but now i’ve learned that some of the oils in it (eucalyptus globulous, peppermint, rosemary, lemon…) may be unsuitable for children under two. i’m sorta freaking out, because i don’t know if the harm would be obvious (reaction on the skin or trouble breathing) or invisible, like internal damage to the organs or brain or something that could affect his growth and development. he has not shown any signs of a bad reaction, so are we in the clear as long as i discontinue the use of those oils until he is older? thank you!

    Reply
    • Hi Trisha, I am not a healthcare provider and cannot provide a medical opinion, but if it were me I would not worry about it. 🙂

      Reply
      • thanks for your fast reply and for sharing your personal opinion. you know how a mama wants to panic when it comes to her baby. 😉

        Reply
  44. I suffered from repeated ear infections when I was a child.
    What I was told by my doctor to tip my head sideways and shake my head slightly while holding a tissue against my ear( to create a vacuum), then repeat on the otherside.
    I had allergies and I often had water in my ears from swimming or bathing that would become trapped and simple needed to be drained. We found though that doing the same thing, if I had a blocked nose or a cold worked really well. I went from having a “ear infection” at least once a month to none. I still do it as an adult and I have never had any problems again.

    Reply
  45. It’s nearly 2 am and my son is whimpering in his sleep and his cheeks are pink and warm, however, his forehead is cooler. We had received some anti’s from an urgent care doc and Beanster ended up not needing it. Over a month later, he now has an ear problem. I hesitate to call it an infection. I going to try the clove of garlic in the ear and see how well this works and possibly give him some ibuprofen for his slight fever. I will also try the lavender-olive oil rub on his lymph nodes. I am curious, though, about chiropractic care for 3.5 year olds. I thoroughly believe in it and go often, but this is the first I’ve heard if it for children and for ear infections. Thanks for all the great info. I’m off to heat up some garlic.

    Reply
  46. My 21 month old has suffered from ear infections all his life! I ebf for 12 months and he had food allergies that kinda cleared up towards the end. Now he eats anything and everything and loves his milk. This month is his 3rd ear infection in 6months. We go on next month to talk about tubes. We had been seeing a chiropractor regularly but she had her baby and haven’t got in in over a month or so. My son is battling another infection as we speak… no fever yet. I need help mamas…I’m at my wits end trying to figure out what’s best for my son. What should I do for my pain now to help his pain? His pediatrian says his ear is pink inside and she can see fluid. My son has been on and off antibiotics all his life and I’ve finally gotten smart and know the difference between needing an antibiotics and doing home remedies. Should I cut all dairy out? Myson drinks raw milk that we do ourselves and loves pastas and cheese that is hate to take away. Is this what is causing all his infections? #helpme

    Reply
    • HI Victoria,
      More people are sensitive, rather than allergic, to a food. Ear infections, chronic sinus congestion, ADHD or skin problems are all affected by food sensitivity reactions. Food sensitivities may even cause mood swings or affect your mental clarity. Irritability and a short temper may also be the result of food sensitivities. And you are guessing if not testing. Hope this finds you and your little one in good health!

      Reply
  47. Hi, thank you for sharing this information. What is good for Vertigo? When I get a cold it goes to my ear and can not lean to the left or bend down without feeling dizzy.

    Thank you,

    Deborah

    Reply
  48. Hello. I’m hoping for some help. My son is 14 months old. He has had at this point over 7 ear infections. My pediatrician sent us to see the ENT and has advised us to put the tubes on the baby because the fluid is not draining. He has an ear infection about every 3-5 weeks and is put on Augmentin. It works only to have another ear infection a few weeks later. We just came back from the pediatrician to find out he has another one. I dont want to put the tubes, because I’ve heard that boys tend to have more infections than girls and they tend to go away by the time they are 2 years old. I’ve advised my pediatrician that I would like to hold off on the tubes until the fall. As the baby is now again on Augmentin, I’m looking for holistic remedies, because the fevers and his pain is unbearable to me.

    Nikolas has very sensitive skin, so i’m not convinced in putting oils and massaging the back of his ears with it. And the onion, well being that he is 14 months old i dont think he will stand still enough time for the vapors to do its thing. I’m moving towards the garlic oil in which I think i can hold him down for 30 seconds. How do i warm it up though? bottle warmer okay?

    Any other suggestions are greatly appreciated.
    Mary Ann

    Reply
    • Hi Mary Ann, if it were me I would discuss my concerns about the research mentioned in this post that antibiotics may actually lead to more ear infections. Certainly there are times in which it is appropriate, but I am wondering if he is up to date on the “wait and see” approach now recommended by the AAP. Also, many moms find chiropractic adjustments helpful. My chiro actually does a little maneuver on the ear that assists with draining.

      Reply
  49. Great article! My 8 month old has had a stuffy nose and has been scratching at her ears and chest. One ear smells a little weird. I’m happy to see I actually have most of these remedies on hand…essential oils, colloidal silver, oil of oregano, garlic. My question is which would you try first with such a young baby? I’m going to also take her to the chiro.

    Reply
      • Do some research because you are obviously unfamiliar with colloidal silver which is not the silver you think it is. It is a natural antibiotic and it is not dangerous at all.

        Reply
  50. Luckily my doctor has been pretty good about not prescribing antibiotics when my kids have ear infections. I find that olive oil and cinnamon have worked every time, reducing the swelling so the pain goes away and they are ready to play in no time!

    Reply
  51. We always used warmed “Sweet Oil” in the ears for our kids for the pain. But we cleaned their ears with a capful of hydrogen peroxide. Just wait until its done bubbling and turn your head and dump it out. If it still feels bubbly then run some water in your ear and the bubbles rise to the top and come out. It works great for ear wax.

    Reply
    • No, ANY honey for infants is BAD!
      Honey is a great thing to have for your medicine chest, but NOT for infants!
      Pasteurized honey is worthless for anything except to make it sweeter; only organic, raw honey is healthy, with all the natural stuff in it to be good for you, but NOT for infants!!! Please, do not give honey to infants, at all. They need to be 12 months old before you can safely give it to them. While there MAY be some arguements about this or those that disbelieve this, why take the risk? There are other options besides honey until your child is 13 months or older.

      Reply
    • What is “sweet oil”?

      PS: the next comment of mine was for something said much earlier in this most’s comments. I couldn’t get back to it afer being told to fill in the name and email….oops! 😉

      Reply
  52. I just had an ear infection that I treated in 1 day with garlic oil, colloidal silver and doTERRA’s On Guard blend (around the ear). You don’t get those type of results with oral antibiotics.

    Reply
  53. If their eyes are full of green green gunk because of the ear infections would that most likely be a bacterial infection?

    Reply
  54. Keri Lopez – I believe that used to be the thinking regarding color, but I heard it mentioned recently that newer information indicates that’s not necessarily the case. Unfortunately, I haven’t personally looked into it yet so I can’t say for sure.

    Reply
  55. Mommypotanus thanks for your reply. My son was just diagnosed with an ear infection in both ears. !! 🙁 all of my usual go to natural remedies have not helped !! We were going to start antibiotics today but now this leads me right back to my deciding point!!

    Reply
    • I have heard that if you put rubbing alcohol in the ears after being in water, it will dry up any water in the ears, so there is no build up of it to cause problems…. might be worth a try.

      Reply
  56. I have used garlic drops. They work wonders and are so soothing. Also, Melaleuca essential oil on a cotton ball and placed on the ear helps too. Don’t put Melaleuca directly in your ear, but putting it on a cotton ball and using it as an earplug helps tremendously. The pain was gone 12 hours after I started that.

    Reply
  57. Another one, and this is really good preventatively- Cold Snap by OHCO. It’s a blend of herbs, comes it capsules or you can make it into a tea or give it through your milk. My kids have been raised on it and haven’t had a single ear infection. It’s a natural antibiotic/anti-viral. You can get it at Whole Foods or on Amazon.

    Reply
  58. I wish I had known better when my son was an infant. When I looked back at his medical records, he had received nearly a dozen courses of antibiotics over an 18 month period, some as close as 3 weeks apart.

    Reply
  59. Here is a link to a great video by Dr David Hill on how to use Basil Essential Oil to treat ear infections. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXAVtTPexHI
    A lot of the research done on essential oils that showed they were not safe for use on young kids or for internal use etc, was done on oils that were not of the highest quality and purity, so its worth checking out the new research.

    here is a link to some info on safely using essential oils for the youngest of kids.
    http://doterrablog.com/ask-dr-hill-essential-oils-for-newborns

    if you’re interested in getting some of these really high quality oils, I’m having a great promotion for folks placing their first order this month – get a free gift! the details will be on my website soon, or contact us here at the shop for the details. In peace and wellness, Dana LaVoie, Lac of balancebeautyandhealth.com

    Reply
  60. Yes!! Doterra Basil essential oil has been a lifesaver for my twins , just a drop on a cotton ball and put in their ears at bedtime + some oregano oil on the bottom of the feet for anti-infective. We have not been in to the pediatrician with ear infections at all this winter as compared to the last 3 years.

    Reply
  61. …Out of curiosity I took a small glass bottle, filled it half with freshly sliced garlic and then topped it up with Macadamia oil. After 2-3 days the smell of garlic was overwhelming if opened. Working out in the wind usually leaves me with a painful sensation in the ear as well as when I go to bed and the fan blows directly on to the bed. I applied a minimal amount of the Macadamia / Garlic Oil via an ear bud working it around inside the ear. Must say that within minutes the pain is gone. I have done this a few times already and have never had any problems or side effects. Must also add that since I have been doing I have had less occurrences with pain after wind exposure. Almost as if it is preventative as well.

    Reply
  62. We always used sweet oil (available at the pharmacy) warmed up, put a few drops in the ear and plug with cotton. Also as a swimmer, we used a mixture of one part rubbing alcohol to one part white vinegar to dry out ears and prevent infection! Works like a charm! 🙂

    Reply
  63. You have to be _REALLY_ careful with home-made remedies! Normally I believe in self-healing and that you don’t need medication for every single littel fever but:

    My sister-in-law tried to cure her ear infection with garlic remedies and ended up in hospital. I had an ear infection when I was 8 years old and my parents didn’t want me to force to take the antibiotics – since then I have had an operation to repair my left ear from caries and heavily perforated ear-drums due to the infection I had years earlier. I still have hearing problems and problems with my ears. It is better to find a good doctor than to take home-made remedies: It can take a while to find the right one who is able to treat you properly but it’s worth it.

    Reply
  64. Hi,
    I am desperate to find an effective remedy for my son’s repeated ear infections. They are the ‘real’ infections, with perforated ear drum and lots of pus draining out of the ear. We’ve had months of anitbiotics and now at least two of them have become ineffective. I assume garlic oil and other remedies can be used before the ear drum perforates, but is there anything I can use while the puss is coming out? Would I use it around the ear? The problem is that my son never seems to complain about an ear ache, it’s straight into the discharge phase, so I don’t get the opportunity to prevent an early infection from developing…. And I’ve lost count how many times his ear drum has popped…

    Reply
    • I used basil essential oil on the outside of the ear. Basil has antibacterial and antiviral properties. I rubbed on the front side from crest of the ear to a little below and behind. Be diligent. Make sure to apply at least twice a day. My baby was 9 months old at the time and it worked within a week.

      Reply
  65. So I know this an old post, but I saw this and just had to share. Ear infections are what got our family started on the journey towards natural living. Our second son got an ear infection at 6 months. The pediatrician said how bad it was, etc. and prescribed antibiotics. We went back at the end of two weeks, and it was worse, so more antibiotics. This cycle went on for three months. Finally, the pediatrician suggested a round of super strong antibiotic injections. I was like, ummmmmm no thanks. So I went exploring online. Eventually I found a website saying to use basil essential oil for the infection and grapefruit essential oil for the pain. So I tried it. After less than a week, the ear infection that had lasted for months was gone. Well, the next thing was that he had too much fluid. She sent us to an ENT. This doctor was in our room for a literal 5 minutes. In this immense amount of time, he decided we simply had to have the ear tube surgery or my son would end up having speech problems from all the fluid. By sheer coincidence, I said something about the surgery to my chiropractor while I was there. He showed me a way to manipulate the eustachian tubes and massage the lymph nodes. We called the ENT and cancelled the surgery. A week later the fluid was gone.
    So we cured all of this at home, and the 5 minute visit is still being paid off. The lovely doctor charged us well of 600 dollars.

    Reply
    • Layla, can you tell me how to manipulate the tubes? This is for myself. My ear is plugged and I read it can be done, but can’t find how to do it. Thanks

      Reply
  66. I have a question… maybe somebody could have an idea or had an experience that could help/guide/inspire me.

    I have a 75 years old friend. One day, he had a “head cold” and was sneezing a lot. Then, after a sneeze, he felt dizzy and nauseus. He rested and he was feeling better but, when he got up, he was walking like if was drunk. Then, he realized he was not able to hear from his left ear.

    He went to see specialists, passed tests, and everybody told him that he was deaf… period. You’re old, it is normal… they said.

    But something deep, deep inside of me (my huntches never proved to be wrong) feels that it is not true and that something could be done… maybe not to restore completely but at least to improve his situation. I have a huntch to use oils and maybe some essential oils… in drops in his ears and in massage around the ears. Is somebody had a similar experience? Some ideas of what to do or what to use? New technique? I would like also to do some ear candling — which I did professionally for many years.

    Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all 🙂

    Reply
    • Sounds like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (bppv) a common vertigo. It happens when small particles from a canal in your inner ear break loose and end up in other canals of your ear. An infection, aging, head injury, pressure from sneezing can all cause loose particles to move around. The Canalith Repositioning Procedure can move the particles back in place and relieve the dizziness, nausea, etc. Here is the link to do at home: http://entcare.wordpress.com/2010/04/29/canalith-repositioning-procedure-for-vertigo/ I did this procedure on my bed at home about 15 years ago and have had no issues since. Hope it works for your friend.

      Reply
  67. I’ve found that salt packs are very effective for ear discomfort. Heat about a cup of salt in a skillet, wrap the hot salt in a cloth diaper or tea towel, tie with a string, and place this nice warm squishy Baggie over the ear. Not only soothing, but actually attracts moisture from inside the ear. Works great on the chest for chest congestion too! If it’s too hot at first, place a layer of washcloth, wool, flannel, etc. against the body first, removing it a the salt cool. Can reheat the salt to use again, but not for cooking or eating.

    Reply
  68. Have child jump on a rebounder! Or hold an infant and gently bounce them several times a day! Drains the ear fluid that is trapped, cleanses the lymphatic system, and exercises every cell of the body! Little children love it! Place rebounder (mini trampoline) in a central location of the house so they will pass by it often and take a few bounces. I will also mention the healthy benefits for the body of the electromagnetic energy it creates when bouncing. Healthiest exercise there is in my opinion.

    Reply
  69. That’s exactly what happened to me! My ear sounds like it’s under water and hurts a bit. I went to see the doctor and they said that it’s red and gave me an antibiotic. Which obviously didn’t do anything. So this was a great article to read.

    Reply
  70. I use homemade garlic oil. Blend equal parts garlic and olive oil together, put in a glass mason jar, stick in a sunny window for a week (shaking the jar twice daily), strain out the garlic, and keep the oil in the fridge. Works on all kinds of infections, including ear infections.

    Sometimes, especially with an infant I’m breastfeeding, I squeeze a few drops of my breastmilk in. It works just as well, and starts out at body temperature.

    Reply
  71. What a helpless feeling having a child crying in pain in the middle of the night. That’s how I discovered the onion cure. It just plain works.
    I would take the core part of the onion and heat it in a little bit of water just to soften it. I placed that near the opening of the ear and covered it with a warm wash cloth.
    My daughter used to get these super painful earaches suddenly out of nowhere. She really hated onions, but once she discovered how well it took the pain away, she’d ask for it. Works fast!

    Reply
  72. I started with a bit of ear pain on my left ear and I discomfort until one day I woke up and my ear was plugged and I could not hear. Then I started getting strong ear pain and went into the urgent care and they prescribed medication and said that within 3-5 days I would get better. It has been two weeks to be exact and all medications that I have taken have not helped. I’m scared because I still can’t hear and I still have pain that comes and goes. Its painful. Reading all your comments with all the natural remedies has put a smile on my face and as soon as I get home from work I will try some of these remedies thank you all so so much!

    Reply
  73. Hi! I just wanted to tell you I was At my pediatricians office with my son who has repeated ear infections. We have regular chiropractic care, eliminated dairy and wheat and have used silver but cannot get my sons ear infections under control and he has constant fluid. My Dr looks at me and says lets try garlic oil, have you heard of mommypotamus, I laughed and said yes my favorite blogger ever! She has info. So I want you to know my awesome pediatrician reads your blog and referred me to you, you are doing well! Unfortunately for my son we are now getting him ear tubes, nothing has worked and he has failed hearing tests. Thanks for your awesome blog!

    Reply
  74. Hi, I really like this post. Even though it is aimed to help parents with children, I have used the onion on my own ear (to treat a clogged ear that lingered after i had a bad respiratory infection) and it worked wonders. Thanks for sharing such great ideas!

    Reply
      • Hi my baby is 8 months old. His first ear infection I used the garlic olive oil drops and it healed pretty quickly. He is now on his secound ear infection. He was screaming all day and was waking up all night so I took him to the dr. After they confirmed it was an ear infection I went home and started doing the drops 3 times a day in both ears. I warm them and make sure they stay in the ear for a minimum of 6-10mins. He started acting so much better and happier. I thought for sure the drops were working. I continued to use them 3 times a day to be safe. It’s been 6 days. Today he started screaming again all day, he can barely sleep… Ibprofen isn’t even helping him. I already know it’s got to be his ears. Now I feel like antibiotics are the only way. It hurts me to see him like this and it’s so hard having a screaming baby that doesn’t sleep. Please if anyone has advice contact me. [email protected] you! My son was hospitalized at 9 days old for a urinary tract infection and was on antibiotics. I feel like since he has already had two ear infections this could be a problem and I don’t want to have to constantly use antibiotics. I am afraid for his future health. I just want the best for him. A happy healthy boy but I cant stand to see him in pain:(

        Reply
  75. There could even be candida yeast in the ear that looks white as I have been reading. Candida in the body can be very common and caused by overuse of antibiotics. I think antibiotic use leads to more antibiotic dependency. My son has a very sensitive stomach and it is a daily struggle to keep him healthy. His behavior and tolerance to food dyes has gotten so much better with daily probiotics and fermented cod liver oil- healthy fats, raw veggies, etc. Sugar is bad for immunity. He had a cold and ear pain with fever for 2 days. I felt his lymph on his neck and massaged it. I also warmed organic unrefined coconut oil and put in his ear with a warm compress, and he is better with no antibiotics!!!

    Reply
  76. Many years ago I had an ear infection and the pain was unbearable. My son had to take me to the emergency room of the nearby hospital. The doctor prescribed some ear drops and painkillers (I don’t remember what it was, except the pain!) and a couple of days, no more pain.

    A few days ago, I woke up in the middle of the night with some uncomfort on my left ear, I cleaned with H2O2 and an earbud. In the morning I woke up and still feeling uncomfort on the ear. By evening time the pain increased then I used the web to search and found this web page. I had only garlic available in the kitchen so I decided to get one and cut it in a cone or wedge and inserted in the ear. The sting (feeling) was strong but bearable. I kept it for about 15 minutes then I remove it. The pain subside. I place the wedge garlic in the refrigerator and went to sleep. In the morning I was feeling a little pain in the ear but not too strong. I took the garlic wedge from the refrigerator and place it in the ear and the feeling was nice because it cools too! 15 minutes later I remove it and carried on with my daily chores. I did the same in the evening and again when I woke up.
    No more pain. Garlic wedge (cone) in the ear, works for me!

    Reply
  77. hi,
    my baby 2 weeks old, she had ear infection , fluid came from her ear and bad smell also came from fluid..plz suggest any treatment

    Reply
    • A child’s eardrum will burst from extreme fluid build-up. This is a good thing! The release of pressure will relieve a lot of pain for the child. But the foul odor means it’s a bacterial infection, and the child should be seen by a physician (preferably a Pediatrician). **Don’t put anything, especially drops of fluid, into the affected ear.** There is a hole in the eardrum, and putting any drops in the ear will cause the liquid to flow through the middle ear, into the eustachian tube, and into the throat. You don’t want to the child to aspirate (inhale, breathe in) any of that into the lungs.

      One huge concern about ear infections in children (the kind that are severe, as in a burst eardrum and leaking fluid – especially with foul odor) is meningitis, encephalitis, and even something like Scarlet Fever due to the bacteria entering the blood system. These are serious, life-threatening diseases.

      I agree with the posted remedies, and other natural approaches to ear infections in children. When the child’s fever of 102+ doesn’t resolve after 48-72 hours, and/or if fluid has leaked out of the ear – especially foul-smelling – it’s time to see a pediatrician.

      Reply
  78. My one month old son was diagnosed with an ear infection and pink eye today. We are certain the pink eye is bacterial as dad got sick first and was treated for ear infections, sinus infection, and bacterial pink eye. I got pink eye as well. Then my one month old started with symptoms. He had nasal congestion too. Could the nasal congestion have caused a misdiagnosed ear infection? They prescribed antibiotics but pink fruity flavor for my ebf one month old. I am not okay with pink fruity oral antibiotics for him, especially being ebf. I was thinking of trying breastmilk, but recently made garlic oil for myself as my ear started feeling achy. Is garlic oil safe for a one month old?

    Reply
  79. My 20 mo son had swollen lymph nodes under his left year for the third day now. I took him to his pediatrician yesterday and the diagnose was the year infection in both years even no fever is present. We ended up with an antibiotic being prescribed. This is his second ear infection, the first one was last month and he took the antibiotics for ten days.
    I’m using the garlic oil since I saw the swollen lymph nodes and they seem smaller now but still there. He is not bothered by them anymore, very active kid. I am wondering if I can continue the natural remedies and not using the antibiotic this time…

    Reply
  80. Hello everybody! i want to help me for my son. He is 5years old. his ear do infection often. yesterday i was at the doctor and the doctor said me that my son in one of my ear has blocked because of fluid. doctor give me some medication antibiotic and some drop to put down his ear.anddocor saind in case that this doesnt sokve this problem (fluid) we have to put the tube (surgery) in order to go fluid. i am very concerned. 🙁 🙁
    Can you help me to tell me a recipe that can help to drain this fluid or to gone this fluid. my son has hearing problem because of this fluid.

    i am wating for your response
    sorry for my english,

    Reply
    • Tubes in the ears are a great solution for fluid build-up in the ears that can lead to frequent infections. They are easily placed, and fall out on their own in about a year.

      Reply
  81. My son is diagnosed with 22Q.11 Deletion Syndrome and was born with a cleft palate, small chin, tiny ear canals, and swallowing issues. I have opposed ear tubes previously, however our ENT insisted that his anatomy needed them. Well the 2nd set fell out. :-/ I’m hoping to try these remedies before another set is tried. Only 1 ear gives us problems when he gets a cold. Started culturing milk kefir too. Thanks for the article.

    Reply
  82. How about olive oil? When I was a kid, my grandmother used to dab a few drops of olive oil on a piece of cottonwhool and carefully put it in my ear (as if it were a headphone, so to speak). It worked fine for me during my childhood.

    Reply
    • see that’s what I was telling everyone and they say they never heard of such a thing heat up olive oil and a couple of warm drops and it works …. It worked for me and I’m 54 and I’m still hear ,,,, haha ,,,,and no ear problems

      Reply
      • When my children were small I would simmer garlic in olive oil over the stove, strain the oil and put a few drops in the infected ear and cover with a piece of cotton. Seemed to always work!

        Reply
  83. there’s evidence to show that food allergies like gluten, milk, eggs , peanuts .dust , pollen. And pets could cause a ear infection , dr . Said just like your nose backs up from allergies , your ear can too but the problem is your pedetrician and ENT Dr. Aren’t familiar with allergies to to be the root of the problem to cause ear infections and your allergist aren’t familiar with your ears . So you need like me as My 2 year old girl is suffering – 4th antibiotic doesn’t work well enough – recurring ear infections . So we’re trying a chiropractor to adjust her to drain the ears , also going to do the cool mist vapor ,omega 3 s and vitamin C , limit her sugar but that’s hard , watch her gluten intake , give her allergy meds for now . The LORD Jesus is our healer – medicine is good but God is great – wisdom comes from God . Pray everyone is blessed and our kids get better. Trust Jesus / do our part and God will bless us .

    Reply
  84. My ear began hurting earlier today (I’m prone to ear infections unfortunately) and I hate taking medicine! So I used a combination of rosemary, eucalyptus, lavender, and lemon EOs along my eustation tubes, and where my mutton chops would be. Also along my outer ear. I’m making garlic oil now, and just took a dose of elderberry syrup. Now, the EOs are already being ytto help, but the elderberry and garlic won’t hurt!

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Fyi, I went to the dr. It turns out I have an infected tooth! But my tooth doesn’t hurt! So an ear infection may not always be the cause of an earache!

      Reply
  85. I have had blocked fluid in my ear canal it seems for over 6 weeks I have drops and yesterday the lady doctor recommended Cerumal ear drops which I am going to acquire at Dis-Chem Store. I am over 60 years old.

    Reply
  86. You can try a warm tea bag behind the ear to help fluid drain. It often works for my little guy who almost always gets ear pain with his colds.

    Reply
  87. My 20 month old baby had his first ear infection when he was 5 months old. He had pus oozing out of his right ear. After that whenever he got a cold he got an infection, that was nearly every month. His ENT gave him a decongestant for 2 months and asked us to do an impedance audiometry test. Now we’ve done 3 impedance tests and a BERA test too. All the impedance test show fluid build up in the left ear however the BERA showed normal earing. Please can anybody suggest any effective remedy before going in for surgery. THANKS

    Reply
    • My sons ear infections were totaling eliminated when we removed wheat and al artificial flavors, sugars and colds from his diet.

      Reply
  88. JEFFREY…..Thank you for your wisdom. Our only hope in the end is that we know the LORD, who helps us get through ALL of life’s problems. GOOD BLESS YOU ALL! ! ! ! ! !

    Reply
  89. So if my.daughter has a little ear drainage it’s ok? Every now.and.then. I.see she has wax that is a little sticky and wet in.her ear that is easy to.get out. She 12months?

    Reply
  90. I put a drop of tea tree essential oil on cotton and set the cotton in my son’s ear for 10 or 15 minutes. This helps immensely as a decongestant.

    Reply
  91. Did you also know that a possible side effect of one of the antibiotics often prescribed for ear infections is hearing loss? Yeah, my father in law did not either until he suffered a little hearing loss following a round of antibiotics for an ear infection just a few years ago. After realizing he could not hear as well out of that ear, he went back and read the insert for that antibiotic and hearing loss was a possible side effect. 🙁

    Reply
    • Hi Heather. I know that this is a late response but I was looking for some things myself. My 89 year old father was in the hospital and had a surgery that was ineffectual, i.e. – they were not going to be able to save his life. They (hospital staff/hospice) said that he would have about 4-months tops and then discussed with me, the option of using a high dose of certain antibiotics for three days to see if the could curtail some of the issues and help stop the pain they caused. Approx. 10-days later he was stone deaf in both ears. The antibiotics did NOTHING – EXCEPT make a him totally deaf when he needed to hear our voices the most over the next 3-months. No-one (doctors, nurses or hospice) ever mentioned anything about that particular side effect, although they went over every other possible side effect. The damage done to your father in-law’s ear is not reversible. I am saddened that you even have this event to discuss. I think to myself, very often, about how many people have this happen. It’s disturbing.

      Reply
  92. My daughter had an ear infection that manifested very quickly. She was balled up in tears from the pain and it was after hours. After calling some friends, I was given a bottle of Muellin Garlic oil. Within about two hours the pain had subsided enough for her to get some sleep. By morning, her ears felt fine. I continued the drops for another couple days and have used it a few times since then. I will never give my daughter another antibiotic for ear infections.

    Reply
  93. My oldest daughter, now 18, used to get ear infections all the time. Garlic oil worked like a charm on them without ever having to take prescribed antibiotics. I used to warm the bottle up a bit in hot water then put a few drops in the ear and cover with a cotton ball. We have also been using elderberry syrup for colds and cherry bark for coughs. Natural remedies have worked best for us.

    Reply
  94. Hey everyone! I love seeing all the posts and great advice. My 5 month old has a ear infection and a moderate cold (very congested) they gave him antibiotics to try to break the fever due to the infection but he just won’t take it and once he does he doesn’t keep it down. I’m wondering if the garlic oil remidie is an oral one? Also it seems he can’t keep his Tylenol down either (he keeps his formula down as long as he doesn’t get any meds) could I do a rubbing alcohol bath on a child this young?or should I use eucalyptus or peppermint instead.

    Reply
    • I know this is a late reply but please don’t use peppermint or eucalyptus oil on babies/small children. It can actually cause breathing problems instead of helping like in adults. Do some major research on EOs before using won’t babies, as many of them can be harmful to them.

      Reply
  95. Hi!
    My daughter had one night of lots of ear pain, where I used a lavender oil compress (my go-to remedy that usually works like a charm!) and a heating pad. She went back to sleep after a little while and when she woke up in the morning seemed much better. Her ear still hurt a little, but she had no fever and was acting totally fine. Its been a week and she seems to be at a point where if I ask her about it (whereupon she will pull on her ear to check it) or if she does a sharp movement she feels some mild pain and tells me it feels “clogged.” I’ve been doing lavender oil, some garlic oil drops, and the heating pad off and on. She’s had a runny nose since before christmas and I know this is tied into that. So I’m wondering if I should take her to the doctor or just figure that the ear will feel better once the cold goes away? Thank you in advance for any insight you may have 🙂

    Reply
  96. Hi, my 7 mo old baby had a cold which resulted with an ear infection. The dr gave us antibiotics but I didn’t give it to him…his ok during the day but wakes up at night crying a few times….I started the olive oil with garlic How long should I do it for? How many times a day? How will I know if every thing is ok it’s been a week I’m scared that I will cuse him harm or an illness ….please help

    Reply
  97. My 11-months old daughter is showing signs of a possible ear infection. Our naturopathic pediatrician recommended the Mullein Garlic drops. We did her first dose last night, and her second this morning. She didn’t awake with any pain last night, so we are hopeful! How many days should we continue the drops? Do we just watch for symptoms to subside?

    Reply
  98. This article is amazing. Thanks to you, we were able to make the food allergy/ear drainage ache connection and resist our doctors antibiotic prescription. I’m so grateful for strong women sharing motherhood wisdom. Thank you for such a well-written, credibly-sourced, solution-based write up.

    Reply
  99. I take both of my girls in to see a chiropractor as soon as they complain that their ears are hurting. The chiropractic adjustment helps to drain any of the fluid that is blocked and causing an infection.
    The other thing I do is treat it “from the inside out” by building up their immune system. This has fixed the problem even when they have a “double ear infection” – both ears.

    Reply
  100. I agree with the comment about not to give babies under 12 months honey. I remember my doctor said that to me. He said something about infant botulism that will harm your baby life. But, as far as I understand the reason behind it is only matter if you feed your baby honey. No matter if you cook it or boil it. I read it on mybabyfeeding.net

    Reply
  101. I chop up garlic and infused it overnight in olive oil. Warmed it and place a few drops in ear. Tied up hair and put arnica gel on neck where the ear tubes are located. Works a treat every time.

    Reply
  102. I haven’t taken time to read ALL the comments and remedies, but I know the baked onion treatment was a fantastic one for us! I would hold it on the baby’s ear, covered with an absorbent cloth, and rock them to sleep for a nap. When they woke up they were much better! Sometimes had to do it more than once in the day. Another good remedy is to take a piece of cotton, stretch and flatten it as much as possible, put black pepper in it, roll it up, saturate the cotton/pepper ball with olive oil, warm it (my sis-in-law would lay it on the kitchen faucet with hot water running) (I would sometimes use the blow dryer), and insert it in the affected ear. Seldom had to treat them more than once! Garlic oil, too, is great!

    Reply
  103. It seems I’ve tried everything to unplug my ears except ear candles. What’s your thots on them? I currently do the neti pot every night with a probiotic & take elderberry, cod liver oil, homemade kombucha, just started kefir again w/raw milk and basic vitamins. I’m at a loss

    Reply
  104. I was looking for the home remedies for ear infection because i don’t prefer using medicines and ear drops for the treatment as these products leave side effects. I am thinking to try the onion remedy mentioned by you for my son.
    Thanks for sharing!
    Can you share any home remedy for dust allergy?

    Reply
  105. Can mold or allergies cause bronchitis?

    I have had bronchitis twice this year. First time was around new years (after a very large snow storm) and now again in Nov. I’ve been sick for two weeks and diagnosed with bronchitis (after having a viral infection). My question is: can mold or an allergy also be a factor in getting bronchitis? I work in a building that constantly has a leaky roof (actually water pouring down) after rain or snow melting and has a constant smell of mold/mildew. I have an allergy to mold and have problems breathing while at work. Thoughts…
    am I crazy to feel this may be the cause or helping me get sick?
    Thanks

    Reply
  106. I can see everyone cares very much about taking care of their children safely. I’m a certified aromatherapist and it’s NOT SAFE FOR CHILDREN TO USE THYME AND OREGENO. Please be sure to do solid research or consult an aromatherapist before using essentional oils on your children. Although they a natural alternative, that does not make them safe all the time. The consituentents that make essential oils effective are what pharmaceuticals are derived from. They are very potent and most of the time are safe for babies and children.

    Reply
  107. Great and informative content. Managed to grasp some natural remedies for ear infections of which I believe it can be a great alternative to the prescription drugs. I can conveniently say you are right about how sometimes we can be prescribed antibiotics even when it is unnecessary. As for me, I will always go for a natural alternative if I believe I can achieve the same outcome. Most importantly making sure to use natural alternative treatments the right way and especially with essential oils.

    Reply
  108. I had no idea that it was fluid build-up that was causing the ear infections in my daughter, but that does explain why chiropractic care would help with that. My daughter has been getting frequent ear infections and she’s only a year old, so maybe her neck has become restricted. I’ll have to take her in to see a chiropractor and see if they can give her an alignment so her ear canals can flush properly.

    Reply
  109. Had unusual ear issue lately. Wasn’t a wax buildup plugging outer ear. Could rub fingers together and hear that with both the same. Sometimes if less heard 1 ear, it’s just wax buildup that can be rinsed out over sink with ear clean kit rubber siphon bulb squirting warm water-vinegar-salt in hard # of times. Tried that but no diff. Tapping fingers together hard close to right ear not heard as well as left. Lower sounds not registering. Net search found this likely to be build up of pressure in middle ear due to swollen eustachian tube that drains like sinuses from there to back of mouth. May take 3-7 days to clear on it’s own. Fighting then draining infection and secreted mucus. So I tried some Dristan menthol nose spray that has alcohol base and chemicals to help open and drain sinuses. Thinking it might help with esutachian tube and middle ear. Also squirted some in outer ear and held in tilted up for few mins. Nothing immediate. Repeated this at bedtime and kept that ear facing up sleeping on side. After sleep it was all clear hearing taps and rubs of fingers close to ear the same in both ears. So the dristan spray in sinuses few times and sprayed left in outer ear facing up for sleep, worked similar to mentions in this page of other things like vinegar, garlic in warm oil, onion in warm oil, etc.

    Reply
  110. Thank you so much for sharing these remedies. My grandchildren have been suffering way too much with ear infections. I will pass these on to my daughters. Many thanks!

    Reply